What other travelers are saying about Omizutori (Shunie)
Visiting Tōdai-ji 東大寺 was a great experience. This ancient temple has an impressive presence, and the moment you see the massive wooden structure, it feels truly remarkable. The scale and design of the building show incredible craftsmanship from centuries ago, and it’s amazing to think about how such architecture was created in the past.
Inside, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the famous Great Buddha leaves a strong impression with its size and calm expression. Walking around the temple grounds also feels very pleasant, surrounded by history, nature, and the gentle presence of deer nearby.
Overall, Tōdai-ji is a wonderful place to appreciate ancient Japanese culture and architecture. The structure is amazing, and the visit feels both meaningful and memorable. 🌿✨
Omizutori takes place every year from March 1st to March 14th, culminating in the most significant rituals in the last few days.
The primary rituals of Omizutori include the dramatic fire ceremony called Otaimatsu, where giant torches are lit and paraded along the balcony of Nigatsu-do, and the sacred water drawing (Omizutori) from the Wakasa well on the final morning, believed to purify the temple and its devotees.
Omizutori is believed to cleanse the sins of people, bring about personal renewal, and ensure a year of peace and health. It is a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal for those who participate or observe.
Tourists are welcome to view the ceremonies and experience the event, though active participation in the rituals is generally reserved for the monks at Todaiji Temple.
Visiting Tōdai-ji was an unforgettable experience. The Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) is awe-inspiring—one of the most impressive wooden structures I’ve ever seen. The giant Buddha statue is stunning and beautifully maintained. The surrounding areas are calm, green, and full of friendly deer that make the visit extra charming. Everything is well organized, and the temple grounds have a magical, serene vibe. Highly recommend adding this to your Japan itinerary!
I was just amazed by this temple. I have been told its the largest wooden building in the world. It is massive! The outside is already impressive due to the grand scale, but the inside is even more impressive. When entering you are immediately greeted with a massive buddha statue. It truly takes your breath away. When you continue to walk inside you will see even more large, beautiful statues. They also have goshuin inside and stamps to collect. I really enjoyed visiting this tample and remember it as one of the most beautiful temples i have seen on my trip to Japan. Highly recommend!
What an amazing place.
The photos do not do the scope justice, it is quite difficult to understand how large this place is.
Inside you can see a giant buddha as well as other big statues and learn about the temple.
Spend about 45 min - 1 hour here in total.
A must see attraction in Nara, the main hall temple is humongous and have the giant Buddha statue. It was gigantic seeing it in front of my own eyes. The temple ground itself was not big. Around the temple there are deers everywhere since it is in the Nara Deer Park area. I went there during the weekend but the crowd is there but still manageable to walk comfortably. there are some souvenir shops on the way out of the temple.
